Mindset Matters: David Rust of Rust Wellness Group On How To Build Stress Resilience with a Positive Mindset
An Interview With Shawna Robins
Finding Time to Relax and Recharge: Taking time to recharge yourself is crucial for building stress resilience and maintaining a positive mindset. This allows you to have more emotional and physical energy to deal with stress and change. In my life, I spend two days per week recharging and resting my mind so that I can be fully present for my clients. This practice has improved my cognitive ability, enabling me to better help my clients through their struggles.
In today’s fast-paced world, stress is an inevitable part of life. However, the way we manage and respond to stress can make a significant difference in our overall well-being. Developing a positive mindset can be a powerful tool in building resilience against stress, allowing individuals to navigate challenges more effectively and maintain better mental and physical health. How can we cultivate this positive mindset and use it to bolster our stress resilience? In this interview series, we are talking to psychologists, coaches, mental health experts, authors, about “How To Build Stress Resilience with a Positive Mindset”. As part of this interview series, we had the pleasure to interview David Rust.
David Rust is the founder and CEO of Rust Wellness Group, a telehealth practice specializing in helping marginalized communities access quality therapists who accept insurance. The communities served by Rust Wellness Group includes BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, veterans, and more. David has been a therapist for 14 years in both the private and public sectors, most recently working in the abdominal transplant division at NYU Langone.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to ‘get to know you’. Can you tell us a bit about your background and your backstory?
My name is David Rust, and I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified case manager with 14 years of experience in the medical and mental health fields. I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Stony Brook University, with a specialization in healthcare. Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to helping clients overcome life’s challenges in both healthcare and mental health industries. I am licensed in NY, FL, and NJ.
I am trained to employ a variety of techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety, depression, and other related disorders. I also have a special affinity for LGBTQIA+ issues, healthcare professionals, and coaching. All of my techniques are compassion-focused, person-centered, solution-oriented, and strength-based therapies.
Can you share a story with us about what brought you to your particular career path?
I’ve always been drawn to helping those in need and empathizing with clients facing difficulties in their lives. The craft of therapy came to me later in my career; I originally started as a social worker in the rehabilitation department of a major hospital. In that role, I encouraged those undergoing rehab to focus on healing not just their disability or illness but their whole being, including emotional and social aspects. I find that my innate ability to listen and identify the root of issues are key strengths that I bring to my practice.
Can you share with our readers a bit about why you are an authority in the stress and wellness fields? In your opinion, what is your unique contribution to the world of wellness?
I’ve spent over a decade working in the medical and mental health fields, specializing in helping individuals navigate some of life’s most challenging moments. My experience as a licensed clinical social worker and certified case manager, combined with my deep understanding of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), has allowed me to support countless clients in managing stress, anxiety, and related disorders.
What sets me apart in the wellness field is my specific mix of holistic approaches coupled with how I hold the clients accountable to participating in their own therapy. My work in both the public and private sectors, especially in rehabilitation and specialized healthcare, has given me a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and social health. I focus on creating a compassionate, person-centered, and strength-based environment that empowers my clients to overcome their challenges and lead more fulfilling lives.
My unique contribution to the world of wellness is my dedication to making quality mental health care accessible to marginalized communities. Through my work with Rust Wellness Group, I strive to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the support they need to thrive.
Do you have a favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Do you have a story about how that was relevant in your life or your work?
One of my favorite quotes is, “I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.” This quote resonates deeply with me and my work because it encourages a proactive and positive attitude. It reminds us that while we can’t control everything that happens to us, we can control how we respond, and through adaptability, we can still achieve our goals. This has allowed me to look at my own life whether that be my work, relationship or family in a different way.
Ok, thank you for all that. Now let’s move to the main focus of our interview. Let’s start at the very beginning so that we are all on the same page. What is the definition of stress? How is it different than anxiety or overwhelm?
The definition of stress is a natural response to a perceived threat or challenge. It’s the body’s way of preparing to deal with a difficult situation. Stress can be caused by external factors, such as work pressures, financial issues, or relationship difficulties, and it can be both short term quickly resolved issue or a long term life long stressor.
The difference between stress and anxiety is that anxiety is more than just a response to a specific stressor; it’s a persistent feeling of worry, fear, or unease, even when there is no immediate threat. Unlike stress, which usually has a clear cause, anxiety can be more diffuse, often focused on potential future events or outcomes.
Overwhelm refers to the state of feeling completely overcome by stress or anxiety, to the point where it becomes difficult to function. It’s when the demands of a situation, or multiple situations, feel too great to manage.
Can you discuss some common misconceptions about stress and those misconceptions can hinder our ability to manage it effectively?
One of the biggest misconceptions about stress is that it is inherently bad for you. In reality, stress can be motivating and help us perform better in challenging situations, like giving a presentation or meeting a deadline. Not all stress is bad and it can lead people to avoid situations that might be beneficial. Another misconception is that you can eliminate stress from your life completely. Stress is a natural part of life, and trying to remove it entirely is unrealistic instead, learning how to cope with stress and build resilience can help you build a better defense against overwhelming stress and anxiety.
There is also the misunderstanding that stress only affects your mind and not your body. Stress has both mental and physical effects. Chronic stress can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, high blood pressure, digestive issues, and weakened immune function. Believing that stress only affects your mind can prevent you from recognizing and addressing the physical symptoms, potentially leading to more serious health problems.
Another common belief is that stress is a sign of weakness. Stress is a normal response to challenging situations, and experiencing it doesn’t mean you’re weak. This can lead to shame or reluctance to seek help, preventing effective stress management. Recognizing that everyone experiences stress and that it’s okay to ask for support is key to managing it healthily.
These misconceptions can hinder someone’s ability to manage stress effectively. Believing that stress is a sign of weakness can make someone feel that their stress is their fault. Additionally, thinking that stress is always bad and needs to be eliminated, rather than managed, can prevent people from using it effectively.
How does one’s environment play a role in stress management and maintaining a positive mindset? Can you provide examples?
An individual’s environment plays a significant role in stress management and maintaining a positive mindset. The physical, social, and cultural aspects of your environment can either contribute to stress or help alleviate it, influencing your overall mental and emotional well-being.
A few examples of this are:
- A stressful work environment with unrealistic deadlines, lack of autonomy, or poor communication can be a significant source of stress. In contrast, a positive work environment can enhance job satisfaction, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
- Your physical environment can also impact your stress management. A cluttered and noisy living space can create a sense of overwhelm and contribute to stress. Conversely, a calming environment with natural light, greenery, and comfortable furniture can support a positive mindset and reduce stress.
These are just a few examples of how stress can affect someone’s life and how a positive mindset can help.
What role does physical health (e.g., exercise, diet, sleep) play in building stress resilience?
Physical health plays a crucial role in stress resilience, as exercise, diet, and sleep significantly impact both our physical and mental well-being. Exercise helps reduce stress by triggering the release of endorphins and dopamine which are natural mood lifters that can improve overall emotional well-being. It also lowers the levels of stress hormones like cortisol, making it easier to manage stress.
A well-balanced diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains supports brain function and mood regulation. Nutrient-rich foods help maintain stable blood sugar levels, which can prevent mood swings and irritability often associated with stress.
Sleep is also important for building stress resilience, as it allows the body and mind to recover and repair. During sleep, the body processes and stores memories, restores energy, and regulates emotions, all of which are crucial for managing stress effectively.
Ok. Here is the main question of our discussion. Can you please share “5 Ways to Build Stress Resilience with a Positive Mindset”? If you can, kindly share a story or example for each.
1. Regular Physical Activity: Exercise helps reduce stress by releasing endorphins and improving overall mood. Engaging in physical activity regularly can build resilience by enhancing physical health and mental clarity. For example, I perform 30 minutes of exercise per day. Exercise not only improved my mood but also increased my energy levels and ability to reengage with issues with “new eyes”. Consistent physical activity has helped build my resilience by providing a space to re-center and to shift into a more positive mindset.
2. Social Connections: Building and nurturing relationships with supportive friends, family, or colleagues can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging, which are crucial for stress resilience. An example of this is when I started volunteering and hosting monthly meet-ups with my close friends. This helped me feel more connected to my community and less isolated. Strong social connections provided me with emotional support, which helped me manage stress more effectively in my life.
3. Seeing Issues Through a Different Lens: Changing the way you interpret and react to stressful situations can reduce their impact. This involves identifying negative thought patterns and replacing them with more positive or realistic perspectives. For example, there was a time when I was struggling at work with completing tasks on a particular project. I was experiencing a lot of negative, self-critical thoughts about my work performance and ability to complete the tasks within the given timeline. By reframing my thoughts, I started viewing the project as an opportunity to learn and grow rather than being self-critical. This shift in perspective helped me approach the task with a more positive and resilient attitude, leading to better performance and reduced stress.
4. Practicing Gratitude Journaling: Regularly acknowledging and appreciating what you’re grateful for can shift your focus from stressors to positive aspects of your life. For example, I started journaling five things I was grateful for every day before I started my day. I kept this list on my desk and looked at it whenever I felt stressed. This practice not only helped me have a more positive outlook on life but also lifted my mood over time.
5. Finding Time to Relax and Recharge: Taking time to recharge yourself is crucial for building stress resilience and maintaining a positive mindset. This allows you to have more emotional and physical energy to deal with stress and change. In my life, I spend two days per week recharging and resting my mind so that I can be fully present for my clients. This practice has improved my cognitive ability, enabling me to better help my clients through their struggles.
Can you share an experience where you applied these stress resilience techniques in your own life? What was the outcome?
I regularly apply these stress resilience techniques due to the mental load of my career. I take time at the end of the day and on weekends to relax and recharge both my mind and body. I use mindful meditation and gratitude journaling to not only recharge my mind but also feel more centered in my life. I also incorporate regular exercise into my week, which allows me to take care of my body while challenging myself in different ways. Additionally, I schedule time with friends twice a month to maintain social connections. This helps me feel more connected to my friends and the world around me.
How can building a supportive community or network contribute to stress resilience and a positive mindset?
Building a supportive community can contribute to stress resilience and a positive mindset by providing a safe space to share your feelings, challenges, and experiences without judgment. Having a sense of belonging, feeling connected to others, and knowing you’re part of something bigger can boost your self-esteem and resilience to stress. Additionally, sharing experiences with others can help you feel less alone, normalize stress, and make it easier to cope, especially when you know that others have faced and overcome similar challenges.
Are there any specific tools or resources (books, apps, courses) you recommend for individuals looking to improve their stress resilience and mindset?
There are two books that I highly recommend: The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle and Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck. I have found that both of these books can be transformative in managing stress and changing one’s mindset. As for apps, I really enjoy Insight Timer. This app is excellent for mindfulness meditation and offers courses on topics like stress management, mindfulness, and building resilience. My favorite course is Positive Psychology: Resilience Skills from the University of Pennsylvania, which is great for building resilience with a positive mindset. All of the tools and resources that I recommend I have also used myself as a way to cope with stress and build better stress resilience.
Wonderful. We are nearly done. Is there a person in the world, or in the US, with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. :-)
I would love to have lunch with Dr. Brené Brown. I find her work on vulnerability, courage, shame, and empathy to be incredibly important to the field of psychology. Her insights on human connection, authenticity, and resilience are vital for living a more meaningful life. I really find her work to be transformative in the way we view ourselves and others around us.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
Readers can follow our website at www.rustwellnessgroup.com, where we post monthly blog entries and share a monthly newsletter.
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!
About the Interviewer: Shawna Robins is an international best-selling author of two books — Powerful Sleep — Rest Deeply, Repair Your Brain and Restore Your Life, and Irresistibly Healthy — Simple Strategies to Feel Vibrant, Alive, Healthy and Full of Energy Again. Shawna is the founder and CEO of Third Spark, an online wellness hub for women over 40 who want to reignite their sleep, reset healthier habits and respark their lives. Shawna is a sleep expert, hormone health expert, and a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBHWC). She has been featured on many podcasts including Dr. Mindy Pelz’s “The Resetter Podcast” and in Authority Magazine, Thrive Global, and The Huffington Post. A free download of her latest book can be found at www.thirdsparkhealth.com/powerful-sleep/ You can follow her on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
